Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has directed all Saudi authorities to deploy their full capabilities to ensure a safe and smooth Hajj 2026 pilgrimage, ordering the complete mobilisation of operational, security, and preventive plans across the holy cities and all entry points to the Kingdom.
Preparations in Full Swing
Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Al Rabiah confirmed that preparations began early this year, with coordinated efforts among multiple government agencies to enhance camp readiness and operational efficiency in Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah.
"The measures support crowd management and enhance pilgrim safety, aligning with efforts to advance Vision 2030," Al Rabiah stated during a field inspection tour of the Mina camps.
New Technology and Monitoring
New electronic monitoring systems have been deployed to track pilgrim movement and regulate entry and exit points across the holy sites. Clear directional signage has been installed to guide pilgrims on timing and procedures, and over 230 surveillance cameras have been set up at Miqat locations and around the Grand Mosque.
The Nusuk smart card, now mandatory for all pilgrims, integrates with these systems to verify permits at checkpoints and help authorities reunite lost pilgrims with their groups.
What This Means for Pilgrims
The scale of the security operation reflects both the logistical challenge of hosting an estimated 1.8 million pilgrims and the current regional security environment. Pilgrims should follow all instructions from their group leaders, carry their Nusuk card at all times, and stay informed through official Ministry of Hajj and Umrah channels. The Kingdom has emphasised that pilgrim safety is the absolute top priority for the 2026 season.